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A meat processing plant. Workers at Linden Foods in Tyrone have refused to start their shift. (Photofusion/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

Around 60 workers have refused to start their shifts at a Northern Ireland food processing plant, citing concerns about how the company is handling the coronavirus pandemic, according to trade union Unite.

Employees at a Linden Foods plant in Dungannon, County Tyrone, say that social distancing measures have not been implemented at the facility, and that those exhibiting coronavirus symptoms have still been allowed to work.

“There have been ongoing issues between management and workers at Linden Foods in Dungannon over the issue of the absence of social distancing for workers on the boning line, in the canteen, changing areas and at entry and exit points,” said Unite regional officer Brian Hewitt on Friday.